Estoppel is a legal principle that prevents a person or entity from asserting a legal right or taking a legal position that contradicts or is inconsistent with its earlier position, behavior, or agreement. The person or entity is said to be “estopped” from changing its position, behavior, or agreement because another person or entity has relied on its earlier position, behavior, or agreement (detrimental reliance).
In Michigan, estoppel is a legal doctrine that can be invoked in various contexts, such as contract disputes, property law, and employment law, among others. The principle of estoppel prevents a party from asserting a claim or a defense that contradicts their previous statements, actions, or agreements if the other party has reasonably relied on those earlier behaviors to their detriment. This reliance must have led to a change in position that would result in harm or injustice if the estopping party were allowed to contradict themselves. Estoppel can take several forms, including promissory estoppel, equitable estoppel, and estoppel by deed. Michigan courts will consider the specific facts of each case, including the conduct and representations of the parties involved, to determine whether estoppel is applicable. The goal of estoppel is to promote fairness and integrity by ensuring that parties cannot go back on their word when it would unfairly harm others who have relied on it.